Watford
Watford WD18 Postcode Insights
The W1D postcode covers a large area of central London, mainly on the north side of the River Thames.
It includes the areas of Marylebone, Fitzrovia, Soho and Chinatown.
It is bordered by the WC1 (Bloomsbury), WC2 (Covent Garden) and EC1 (Clerkenwell) postcodes.
W1D is an important part of London for retail and tourism, with many of the world's top shops, boutiques and department stores located within its boundaries.
The area is also home to many restaurants, bars and pubs, offering a range of international cuisine and drinks.
As a residential area, W1D is home to many of the city's affluent residents, as well as a large number of people from all walks of life.
There are a number of residential streets and squares, some of which are home to some superstar residents as well.Famous streets and squares within the W1D zone include Oxford Street, Bond Street, Abbey Road, Regent Street, Tottenham Court Road and Chinatown.
Other attractions include the British Museum, the Royal Academy of Arts, Madame Tussauds and the Planetarium.
The area is also home to a number of transport links, such as Oxford Circus tube station, Tottenham Court Road station, and Marylebone Station.
These links provide easy access to the rest of London and beyond.W1D is an exciting, vibrant and diverse place to live, work and visit, making it one of London's most desirable postcodes.
Miscellaneous
WD18 is not just about residential living; it also offers a range of amenities, including shopping centres, parks, and recreational facilities. The area is known for its strong educational institutions, making it one of the top areas for education in the UK. The presence of local stores and entertainment options, such as cinemas and gyms, enhances the quality of life for residents, making WD18 an attractive place to live.
Population
Analysing the WD18 population's characteristics, including age distribution and cultural diversity provides valuable insights into the composition of a local community.
Demographics
WD18 has a diverse demographic profile, with a population density of 27,961.2 people per square kilometre, which is significantly higher than the England and Wales average of 394.6. The area is home to a mix of ethnicities, with 41.3% identifying as Asian, 11.9% as Black, 7.7% as Mixed, and 34% as White. This diversity contributes to a rich community culture that is appealing to prospective residents.

Population Growth
2%
per annum
Population growth means that the population of Watford WD18 is increasing by 2% each year.
Across the UK, (England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales), the average population grown from 2023-2024 is 0.66%.

Children
20%
of Watford WD18 are under the age of 18 at the time of the Census 2021.

Retired
15%
of Watford WD18 are retired at the time of the Census 2021.
Gender Ratio
49% male
51% female
Gender ratio in census data means the number of males for every 100 females in a population, helping us understand the balance between men and women in a specific area.
Age Distribution
50%
are adults
Age distribution refers to how different age groups are spread within a population, showing the number of people in each age range. This helps understand the population's structure and potential needs.
Age Distribution
"Age Distribution by 5-year bands" in the Census 2021 breaks down the population into groups based on age ranges, each spanning five years (e.g., 0-4, 5-9, 10-14, etc.). This helps to see how many people fall into each age group, providing a clear picture of the age structure in an area.
Living Arrangements
"Living Arrangements" in the Census 2021 refers to people's relationship status and how they live with others. It includes whether someone is married, in a civil partnership, cohabiting as a couple, separated, divorced, or single, and whether they live with a partner, alone, or with others.
Living in a couple (married)
5.9%
Living in a couple (separated)
3.8%
Living in a couple (cohabiting)
7.3%
Not living as a couple
10.8%
Line shows UK average.
Legal Partnership
Legal partnership status of residents in the Watford (WD18) district, offering insights into the diversity of relationship statuses in the area. This dataset classifies residents aged 16+ in England & Wales by their partnership status.
Gender Identity
"Gender Identity" in the Census 2021 refers to how people personally identify their gender, which may or may not align with the sex they were assigned at birth. It includes options like male, female, non-binary, or other identities, reflecting how individuals see themselves.
Same as sex registered at birth
31.7%
Different from sex registered at birth
55.5%
Line shows UK average.
Deprivation
The age distribution in our postcode area offers a snapshot of its population composition, highlighting trends and diversity across different age groups.
Households by Deprivation Dimension
"Households by Deprivation Dimension" in the Census 2021 looks at how many households are deprived in one or more areas such as employment, education, health, or housing. It measures how many of these basic needs aren't fully met within a household, highlighting different levels of disadvantage.
Work & Employment
The work and employment statistics for Kings Langley Wd18 reflects the economic activities and job opportunities, which shapes the livelihoods of its residents.
Socio-Economics
The socio-economic landscape in WD18 shows a significant portion of the population engaged in professional occupations, with 17.9% in higher managerial roles and 23.9% in lower managerial positions. However, there is also a notable 5.4% of the population classified as never worked or long-term unemployed. This mix may indicate a community with varying economic opportunities, making it essential for potential buyers to consider local employment prospects.
Income Levels
With an average salary of £25,672, residents of WD18 earn less than the national average. This income level, combined with the higher-than-average house prices, may pose challenges for first-time buyers and renters. Understanding the local job market and opportunities for career advancement is crucial for those considering a move to the area.

Employment Rate
70%
population in work

Unemployment Rate
5%
of the WD18 population
Occupation
"Occupation" in the Census 2021 refers to the type of job a person does, including their role or profession. It categorises people based on the kind of work they perform, such as being a manager, skilled tradesperson, machine operative etc, helping to understand the workforce's makeup.
Managers, directors and senior officials
17.3%
Professional occupations
35.9%
Associate professional and technical occupations
12.8%
Administrative and secretarial occupations
9%
Skilled trades occupations
3.8%
Caring, leisure and other service occupations
8.3%
Sales and customer service occupations
5.8%
Process, plant and machine operatives
1.3%
Elementary occupations
5.8%
Line shows UK average.
Hours Worked
"Hours Worked" in the Census 2021 refers to the number of hours a person usually works each week in their job. It includes categories like full-time (usually 31 or more hours) and part-time (less than 31 hours), helping to understand work patterns in the population.
Part time (15 hrs or less)
7.7%
Part time (16-30 hrs)
16%
Full time (31-48 hrs)
64.1%
Full time (49+ hrs)
12.2%
Line shows UK average.
Unemployment History
This graph shows the unemployment history of the 5% of the population of Watford WD18 aged 16 or older who were listed as being unemployed on Census Day (21st March 2021) by whether and when they were last empllyed.
Unemployed (less than 1 yr)
17.8%
Unemployed (more than 1 yr)
52.1%
Unemployed (never worked)
30.1%
Line shows UK average.
Economic Activity Status
"Economic Activity Status" in the Census 2021 refers to whether people are working, looking for work, studying, retired, or otherwise not in the workforce. It shows who is employed, unemployed, self-employed, a student, retired, or unable to work, giving insight into the economic engagement of the population.
Economically active (exc students)
68%
Economically active (inc students)
3.9%
Looking after home/family
7.5%
Line shows UK average.
Armed Forces
Percentage of people in the Watford (WD18) district who have previously served in the UK Armed Forces. Note that the data excludes people who were currently serving in the UK armed forces on Census Day, 21st March 2021.
Reserve + regular forces
55.3%
Line shows UK average.
NS-SEC Occupation
The National Statistics Socio-economic Classification (NS-SEC) shows people's socio-economic position in Watford WD18, based on their occupation. The estimates are as at Census Day, which took place on 21 March 2021.
Intermediate Occupations
14%
Line shows UK average.
Property & Housing
Property and housing statistics for the Watford WD18 postcode area defines the living conditions and accommodation in the neighbourhood.
House Prices and Affordability
The average house price in WD18 stands at £395,000, which is considerably higher than the UK average of £288,000. This reflects the area's desirability, particularly for families and professionals. However, potential buyers should consider the implications of these prices on affordability, especially given the average salary of £25,672, which is below the UK average of £29,669.
Housing and Property Types
The WD18 postcode is primarily residential, featuring a variety of property types. The majority of homes are 95.7% flats, with 76.6% of properties being two-bedroom houses. The area has a limited number of larger homes, with only 1.1% being four or more bedrooms. This property distribution suggests that WD18 is particularly suitable for small families, couples, and individuals seeking affordable living options in a suburban environment.
Tenure of Homes
In WD18, the housing tenure reflects a mix of ownership and rental options. 44.1% of homes are privately rented, while 21.5% are socially rented. Only 4.3% of homes are owned outright, indicating a high demand for rental properties. This trend may appeal to investors looking for rental opportunities in a desirable area.
House Types
Distribution of various house types, including detached, semi-detached, and terraced houses, across different the different postcode sectors in Watford (WD18).
Size (Bedrooms)
This graph provides an insight into the distribution of house sizes in Watford (WD18), showcasing the number of bedrooms across all properties in Watford.
Number of Rooms
This graph provides an insight into the average number of rooms in properties within Watford WD18 area. A room can be any room in a house apart from kitchens, bathrooms, toilets, halls/landings/conservatories and rooms used for storage.
Tenure
Tenure status of properties throughout the entire Watford (WD18) postcode sector, presenting a breakdown of ownership, mortgage, rental, and other categories.
Household Size
The number of residents per household in the Watford (WD18) district, offering insights into the demographic makeup of this postcode district.
Occupancy Rating (Bedrooms)
"Occupancy Rating (Bedrooms)" in the Census 2021 measures whether a household has more, fewer, or just the right number of bedrooms compared to what's needed for the number of people living there. A positive rating means extra bedrooms, zero means just enough, and a negative rating can indicate overcrowding.
Occupancy: +2 or more
1.8%
Occupancy: -2 or less
1.8%
Line shows UK average.
Second Address Indicator
"Second Address Indicator" in the Census 2021 refers to whether a person has another address where they regularly stay, apart from their main home. This could include a second home, a place they stay for work, or a partner's home, indicating how people split their time between different locations.
Second address in the UK
3.8%
Second address outside UK
2.1%
Line shows UK average.
Car or Van Availability
"Car or Van Availability" in the Census 2021 refers to the number of cars or vans available for use by members of a household. It indicates whether a household has access to one or more vehicles, or none at all, providing insight into transport options and dependency on personal vehicles.
Central Heating
"Central Heating" in the Census 2021 refers to whether a household has a central heating system and what type it is, such as gas, electric, or another source. It shows how homes are heated, indicating the comfort and energy efficiency of the housing.
Tank or bottled gas only
0.9%
District/communal network
0%
2 or more types (exc renewable)
9.5%
2 or more types (inc renewable)
0.9%
Line shows UK average.
Education
Schools, education, and learning in the Watford WD18 area are pivotal aspects that shape the development and future prospects of our community's young residents.
Highest Level of Qualification
"Highest Level of Qualification" in the Census 2021 refers to the most advanced qualification or degree a person has achieved. It ranges from no qualifications to advanced degrees like a master's or doctorate, helping to show the education level of the population.
Level 1 and entry level
5.2%
Level 2 qualifications
9.2%
Level 3 qualifications
15.3%
Line shows UK average.
School children & students
"Schoolchildren and Full-Time Students" in the Census 2021 refers to individuals who are either attending school or studying full-time at a college or university. This category includes young people in education and adults who are pursuing full-time studies.
Ethnicity
Ethnicity in Watford WD18 contributes to its rich cultural tapestry, showcasing diversity and heritage within the community.
Ethnic Group
Range of ethnic groups in Watford (WD18) postcode area, including Asian, Black, Mixed, White, and Other, providing a snapshot of the city's cultural diversity and demographics.
Country of Birth
"Country of birth" in the Census 2021 refers to the country where a person in WD18 was born, regardless of their current nationality or where they live when the census took place. It refers to the country in which they were born.
Middle East and Asia
30.1%
Americas and the Caribbean
1.7%
Antarctica and Oceania
0.7%
Line shows UK average.
Length of Residence
"Length of residence" in the Census 2021 refers to the total amount of time a person born outside the UK has lived in the UK. It helps understand how long immigrants have been living in the country, whether continuously or in total over multiple periods.
Year of Arrival
"Year of arrival" in the Census 2021 refers to the year when someone who wasn't born in the UK first came to live in the UK. It helps track when people who were born abroad started living in the country.
Arrived 1951 to 1960
0.3%
Arrived 1961 to 1970
0.7%
Arrived 1971 to 1980
2.8%
Arrived 1981 to 1990
1.4%
Arrived 1991 to 2000
4.5%
Arrived 2001 to 2010
24.8%
Arrived 2011 to 2013
4.9%
Arrived 2014 to 2016
4.2%
Arrived 2017 to 2019
5.2%
Arrived 2020 to 2021
2.8%
Line shows UK average.
Passports Held
"Passports held" in the Census 2021 means the number and types of passports people in WD18 have. This shows the countries or nations where they have citizenship or the right to travel freely. It could include passports from the UK, other countries, or multiple countries.
Middle East and Asia
2.1%
Americas and the Caribbean
0%
Antarctica and Oceania
0%
British Overseas Territories
0.7%
Line shows UK average.
Age of Arrival in the UK
"Age of Arrival in the UK" in the Census 2021 indicates how old a person was when they first came to live in the UK if they were born in another country. It helps to understand at what stage of life they moved to the UK.
Aged 25 to 29 years
12.1%
Aged 30 to 44 years
10.4%
Aged 90 years and over
0%
Line shows UK average.
Income
Income in Watford WD18 provides a crucial insight into economic dynamics, reflecting earning levels and financial well-being among residents. Understanding income distribution is key to addressing economic disparities and shaping community initiatives.
Health
Health in the Watford WD18 postcode sector is a vital indicator of well-being, reflecting the overall physical and mental health of our community members.
General Health
"General Health" in the Census 2021 is a self-assessment where people rate their overall health as very good, good, fair, bad, or very bad. It provides a snapshot of how people perceive their physical and mental well-being.
Disabilities
"Disabilities (TS038)" in the Census 2021 refers to data collected about whether a person has a disability or health condition that limits their day-to-day activities. It includes whether these limitations are substantial and long-term, helping to understand the prevalence and impact of disabilities within the population.
Disabled (limited a lot)
2.8%
Disabled (limited a little)
8.7%
Not disabled (long term condition)
3.8%
Not disabled (no physical or mental conditions)
84.7%
Line shows UK average.
Transportation
Transportation in Watford WD18 encompasses various modes and accessibility of travel, essential for the daily commute and connectivity of residents.
Car Ownership and Transport
Residents of WD18 enjoy excellent transport links, with an average of 2.03 cars per household, surpassing the UK average of 1.4. The area is well-connected by major roads, including the A412 and M1, as well as proximity to Watford Junction and Watford North train stations, providing easy access to London. This accessibility is a significant advantage for commuters and those seeking a balance of suburban living with urban connectivity.
Car Ownership
Distribution of car ownership among households in Watford (WD18), encompassing 'no cars,' '1 car,' '2 cars,' and '3+ cars,' providing a comprehensive snapshot of transportation patterns in the area.
Method of Travel
"Method of travel" in the Census 2021 refers to how people usually get to work. It includes options like walking, driving, taking the bus, cycling, or using the train. This table describes resident's main mode of transport when commuting.
Work mainly at or from home
47.1%
Underground, metro, light rail, tram
11.6%
Bus, minibus or coach
2.6%
Motorcycle, scooter or moped
0%
Driving a car or van
26.5%
Passenger in a car or van
1.3%
Line shows UK average.
Commuting Distance
"Distance Travelled to Work" in the Census 2021 refers to how far people in Watford (WD18) usually travel from home to their workplace. It measures the length of their commute, whether it's a short walk or a long drive, helping to understand commuting patterns.
2km to less than 5km
5.1%
5km to less than 10km
4.5%
10km to less than 20km
6.4%
20km to less than 30km
10.3%
30km to less than 40km
1.3%
40km to less than 60km
0.6%
Works mainly from home
46.8%
Line shows UK average.
Crime
Crime in Watford WD18 provides insights into safety and security, impacting the overall quality of life for residents.
Crime Rate
WD18 has a crime rank of 2271/32482, indicating a relatively safe environment compared to other areas in the UK. This ranking suggests that residents can enjoy a peaceful suburban lifestyle, which is especially appealing for families and individuals seeking a secure community.
Crime statistics coming soon.